In my first year as an agent in Fayette County I noticed that we have an overall lack of communications programing within our clubs and school visits. Providing youth with the ability to enhance and develop communication skills is of great importance in Kentucky. The development of communications skills is one of the preeminent skills necessary to grow as an individual, a community member and a leader. As a 4-H Youth Development Agent I am presented with the curriculum and ability to bring communication programs to youth throughout the county.  

To increase participation in the communications, contest this year I have made the decision to require that Country Ham Project Members participate. Ham project members are required to give a speech at the start fair as part of the program. Not only will requiring them to participate in our county contest increase our numbers and in turn improve our numbers; they will also gain key experience they need for their state fair speeches. 

By comparing the numbers from our communications contest this year to the several past few years I will be able to measure the success of this initiative. Taking into account those who have paid and registered for the ham project our communications contest participation numbers should start off at a minimum of 17. I also plan to compare ham project members state fair scores from this upcoming year with the results of last year. this will allow me to measure if the lesson and experience have made a measured improvement in their skills. To continue to improve the communications project in later years, I plan to reach out to our schools and provide lessons on public speaking and potentially hold contests within the school system.